M&S supplier to close factory

CLOTHING manufacturer Dewhirst is to close a factory with the loss of around 325 jobs. The factory in Cardigan, west Wales, which makes women's jeans, is expected to close in November.

Dewhirst's main customer is retailer Marks & Spencer but the spokesman added: 'This is not a Marks & Spencer issue.'

In May, Dewhirst announced plans in May to shut its factory in Swansea, which makes trousers and skirts, with the loss of 435 jobs.

A spokesman said the latest decision was regrettable but was the result of 'continued consumer pressure on prices'.

He said: 'The group has regrettably announced the proposed closure of its Cardigan factory. This is a direct result of the continued consumer pressure on prices that has led to insufficient profitable business being available to maintain our UK manufacturing at current levels.'

Dewhirst employs around 3,000 people in the UK, including Cardigan, Fishguard and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Another 16,000 people are employed overseas by the 115-year-old company.

Dewhirst was taken private in a £112.7m management buyout last summer after its share price disappointed on the London market.